Engineers from United Utilities will this week recommence essential work to replace old, leak-prone metal water mains in Wilmslow with modern new plastic equivalents.
Corroded pipes, some of which are more than 50 years old, will be replaced in a 12 week scheme which will be delivered in three phases.
The first phase, starting tomorrow, Wednesday January 5th, will see work take place on Mill Street from the junction of Mill Street heading towards Church Street. Temporary two-way traffic lights will be set up during the work and some initial site preparation work is taking place today.
The second phase will continue along Church Street towards Bank Square. A one-way system will be in place with traffic flowing towards Banks Square and a short diversion for traffic approaching Church Street from the Green Lane side of town will be in place.
The third phase will be along Sawn Street towards the junction with Manchester Road. A one way system will be required, and a short diversion route will be clearly marked.
The move is part of a multi-million pound investment scheme to upgrade water pipes across Cheshire, in order to improve water quality and reduce the risk of bursts and leaks. United Utilities delivered several weeks' worth of work towards the end of last year in Wilmslow to replace pipes.
John Nock, United Utilities project manager for the scheme said: "This investment will mean even better water quality and fewer leaks for businesses and homes in Wilmslow for generations to come.
"The pipes we are replacing have reached the end of their useful life. Their age makes them more prone to leaks and replacing them is an important way of saving water, and preventing other issues such as water discolouration.
"We appreciate that roadworks are a nuisance, but we will be going all out to get this work done quickly."
To complete the work as speedily as possible, engineers will be using a clever technique called 'sliplining', which involves pushing plastic pipes through the existing metal water mains.
"It means fewer holes in the road," confirmed John. "The old metal pipes remain in the ground, but the water travels through the new plastic pipes within. It allows us to get the job done more quickly."
Customers in the area requiring more information can call United Utilities on 0845 746 2200.
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